Function extension module

ABSTRACT

A feature expansion module is provided which includes a generally rectangular body ( 11 ) installable in a host device ( 1 ), a first connection terminal ( 13 ) provided at one side of the body ( 11 ) for electrical connection with the host device ( 1 ), a feature expansion unit ( 44 ) provided inside the body ( 11 ) and having one or more functions, one or more recesses ( 22 ) formed contiguously to an insertion slot ( 23 ) formed at the other side of the body ( 11 ) and through which an integrated circuit chip ( 27 ) incorporating integrated circuit elements is inserted, to receive the integrated circuit chip ( 27 ), a second connection terminal ( 25 ) provided in the recess ( 22 ) for electrical connection with a group of terminals provided at the integrated circuit chip ( 27 ), and a controller ( 9 ) built in the body ( 11 ) to control the integrated circuit chip ( 27 ) set in the recess ( 22 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a feature expansion module whichimplements one or more functions and is also connectable to a hostdevice to work as an expansion module for the host device.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Conventionally, there is available a generally plate-like IC cardformed to freely be removably installable in a host device such as apersonal computer or the like and an information processing device suchas a digital still camera or the like and including a semiconductormemory so that it is usable as an external storage. The IC card having alarge storage capacity can record about 64 Megabytes of informativesignals.

[0003] If such an IC card removably installable in the host-device suchas a personal computer and having a first function which can beperformed independently of the host device can be given a secondfunction, the host device or IC card can have its functionality moreextended and be used more conveniently.

[0004] Also, if the IC card can be designed to work as a memory andcontroller for a digital still camera or the like, the informationprocessor itself can be designed more compact and lightweight to improveits portability.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Accordingly, the present invention has an object to overcome theabove-mentioned drawbacks of the related art by providing a featureexpansion module having a first function owned by an IC card removablyinstallable in a host device and which can be performed independently ofthe host device, for example, and a second function which will beperformed when an integrated circuit chip thereof is installed in placein the feature expansion module, to thereby extend the functionality ofthe IC card or the host device in which the IC card is installed.

[0006] The present invention has another object to provide a featureexpansion module giving to a memory unit used as an external storage foran information processor a function to control the information processorand which thus permits to provide a more compact, lightweight andconvenient information processor.

[0007] The above object can be attained by providing a feature expansionmodule according to the present invention including:

[0008] a generally rectangular body installable in a host device;

[0009] a first connection terminal provided at one side of the body toelectrically be connected to the host device;

[0010] a feature expansion unit formed in the body and having one ormore functions;

[0011] one or more recesses, formed contiguously to an insertion slotformed at the other side of the body and through which an integratedcircuit chip incorporating integrated circuit elements is to beinserted, to receive the integrated circuit chip;

[0012] a second connection terminal provided in the recess toelectrically be connected to a group of terminals provided on theintegrated circuit chip; and

[0013] a controller incorporated in the body to control the integratedcircuit chip set in the recess.

[0014] Also the above object can be attained by providing a featureexpansion module according to the present invention including:

[0015] a generally rectangular body installable in a host device;

[0016] one or more memory chips including an internal memory element;

[0017] a first connection terminal provided at one side of the body toelectrically be connected to the host device;

[0018] a feature expansion unit formed in the body and having one ormore functions;

[0019] one or more recesses, formed contiguously to an insertion slotformed at the other side of the body and through which the memory chipincorporating the memory element is to be inserted, to receive thememory chip;

[0020] a second connection terminal provided in the recess toelectrically be connected to a group of terminals provided on the memorychip; and

[0021] a controller incorporated in the body to control the memory chipset in the recess.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the feature expansion moduleaccording to the present invention, connectable to a variety of hostdevices.

[0023]FIG. 2 is a plan view of the feature expansion module according tothe present invention.

[0024]FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the feature expansion moduleaccording to the present invention.

[0025]FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the feature expansion module accordingto the present invention;

[0026]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a memory chip to be received inthe feature expansion module according to the present invention.

[0027]FIG. 6 shows the circuit configuration of the feature expansionmodule with a fingerprint detecting function.

[0028]FIG. 7 shows the circuit configuration of the feature expansionmodule with a camera function.

[0029]FIG. 8 shows the circuit configuration of the feature expansionmodule with a GPS (global positioning system) function.

[0030]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a camera module and compact memorycard.

[0031]FIG. 10 is an internal block diagram of the camera module.

[0032]FIG. 11 is an internal block diagram of a camera controllerprovided inside the camera module.

[0033]FIG. 12 is an internal block diagram of the compact memory card.

[0034]FIG. 13 is a state transition diagram showing the mode switchingof the camera module.

[0035]FIG. 14 shows a start-up sequence of the camera module having thecompact card memory set therein.

[0036]FIG. 15 shows a start-up sequence of the camera module having nocompact memory card set therein.

[0037]FIG. 16 shows a state-transition sequence in which the cameramodule shifts from a camera mode to memory mode.

[0038]FIG. 17 shows a state-transition sequence in which the cameramodule shifts from the memory mode to camera mode.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0039] The feature expansion module according to the present inventionwill be discussed in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Referring now to FIG. 1, there is schematically illustrated inthe form of a perspective view the feature expansion module according tothe present invention. The feature expansion module is indicated with areference 10. The feature expansion module 10 is to be used as anexternal storage for a host device 1 such as a personal computer, PDA(portable digital assistant), mobile phone, audio apparatus or the liketo store informative signals including data, picture data, video data,music data or the like to be processed by a computer. As shown in FIG.1, the feature expansion module 10 is installed into the host device 1through a feature expansion module insertion slot 2 formed in the hostdevice 1 from and to which informative signals are recorded orreproduced by the host device 1. The feature expansion module 10 has amemory, and information recorded in the memory in the feature expansionmodule 10 is transmitted through the host device 1 or externalinformation is received into the memory in the feature expansion module10 through the host device 1.

[0041] The feature expansion module 10 used as above receives anintegrated circuit chip such as a memory chip or the like removablyintroduced from one end thereof as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, the feature expansion module 10 hasa housing 11 formed from an upper half 10 a and lower half 10 b andwhich provides the body of the feature expansion module 10. The upperand lower halves 10 a and 10 b forming together the housing 11 aremolded from a rigid synthetic resin.

[0043] The housing 11 formed from the above upper and lower halves 10 aand 10 b coupled to each other has built therein a semiconductor device12 in which a controller 9 is formed to write informative signals to thememory chip and read informative signals from a control circuit 44 (willbe best seen in FIG. 6) which implements unique functions of the memorychip or the feature expansion module 10. Also, the housing 11 is formedto have a mechanical strength with which it will not be bent under anordinary external force or the like applicable during use of the featureexpansion module 10, to protect the internal semiconductor device 12.

[0044] A terminal block 13 is provided over the front one (front endface 11 a) of shorter sides and bottom side 11 b of the housing 11. Theterminal block 13 has as many engagement concavities 15 defined betweenpartitions 14 as terminal electrodes and in which a group of terminalsprovided at the host device 1 is engaged. A plurality of electrodes 16isolated by the partitions 14 from each other is provided on the bottomsof the engagement concavities 15. Since the electrode 16 is provided onthe bottom of the engagement concavity 15, the engagement concavity 15protects the electrode 16 by preventing it from being directly touchedby the finger or the like. In the housing 11, there are provided tenelectrodes 16. Data is transferred between the feature expansion module10 and host device 1 through the electrodes 16 of the terminal block 13via a serial interface. More specifically, the plurality of electrodes16 includes at least an input terminal for serial protocol bus statesignal BS, input terminal for serial protocol data signal SDIO and aninput terminal for serial clock SCLK, and a terminal for a supplyvoltage VCC and reserved terminal as well.

[0045] At the front 11 a where the terminal block 13 is formed, thehousing 11 is chamfered (at a reference 17) at one of four cornersthereof for such a purpose that the user can easily identify thedirection of insertion into the host device 1. On one lateral side face11 c of the housing 11, where the chamfer 17 is formed, there is formedan incorrect-insertion preventive cut-out 18 open at the bottom side 11b and contiguous to the chamfer 17. The chamfer 17 andincorrect-insertion preventive cut-out 18 will work together to limitthe direction of the feature expansion module 10 being introduced intothe host device 1, to thereby prevent the feature expansion module 10from being incorrectly inserted into the host device 1. That is, whenthe feature expansion module 10 is not normally introduced through theinsertion slot 2, the chamfer 17 and incorrect-insertion preventivecut-out 18 will prevent the electrodes 16 from being put into contactwith the terminal group of the host device 1 by blocking the electrodes16 and terminal group of the host device 1 from being engaged into theengagement concavities 15 defined between the partitions 14.

[0046] Also, in the lateral side face 11 c of the housing 11 and rathernear to the front end face 11 a, there is formed a disengagementpreventive concavity 19 open at the bottom side 11 b. When the featureexpansion module 10 is introduced into the host device 1, an elasticengagement piece provided at the host device 1 is engaged into thedisengagement preventive concavity 19 to prevent the feature expansionmodule 10 from being disengaged from the host device 1. Also, generallyin the center of the other lateral side face 11 d of the housing 1,there is formed an engagement concavity 21 open at the bottom side 11 band into which an ejection mechanism provided at the host device 1 is tobe engaged.

[0047] In addition, the housing 11 has provided therein nearer to a rearside 11 f thereof a recess 22 in which a memory chip 27 is to beremovably installed, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5. The recess 22 consistsof an insertion slot 23 formed in the one lateral side face 11 c of theupper half 10 a of the housing 11 and an opening 24 formed in the upperhalf 10 a of the housing 11 contiguously to the insertion slot 23 andnearly to an upper side 11 e of the housing 11. The memory chip 27 canbe introduced into, or removed from, the recess 22 by the finger or thelike. The recess 22 is formed to have the same dimensions as the memorychip 27 so that the memory chip 27 once introduced in the recess 22 willbe flush at a rear end face 28 e thereof exposed in the opening 24 withthe lateral side face 11 c of the housing 11. Thus, in this featureexpansion module 10, the memory chip 27 once introduced in the recess 22will not project at the rear end thereof from the lateral side face 11 cof the housing 11. Namely, the feature expansion module 10 can smoothlybe installed into or removed from the host device 1 and will feel smoothwhen held in hand.

[0048] The recess 22 has a bottom 22 a which guides the memory chip 27being introduced or ejected, and also connection terminals 25 providedon an innermost wall thereof for electrical connection with the memorychip 27 once inserted in place. In addition, the recess 22 has a guideconcavity 26 formed on each of a lateral wall 22 b parallel to thedirection of inserting the memory chip 27 and a lateral wall 22 c theinsertion end of the memory chip 27 going to be introduced will abut.The guide concavity 26 guides the memory chip 27 being introduced orejected while providing a well-defined position for the memory chip 27to be received in the recess 22.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 5, the memory chip 27 to be received in theabove-mentioned recess 22 includes a generally rectangular chip body 28having generally same dimensions as the recess 22 and molded from thesame material as that of the housing 11. The chip body 28 has builttherein one or more flash memories 29 being a semiconductor memory. Theflash memory 29 has a storage capacity of any of 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128MB, . . . , for example.

[0050] The chip body 28 has a plurality of terminals 31 provided at abottom side 28 b thereof at a front end face 28 a, that is, the end forthe first insertion into the recess 22, and which are to be electricallyconnected with the connection terminals 25 provided in the recess 22.When the terminals 31 are electrically connected to the connectionterminals 25 in the recess 22, data is written to or read from the flashmemory 29 under the control of the controller 9 formed in thesemiconductor device 12 provided in the housing 11.

[0051] The chip body 28 has provided thereon insertion guides 32projecting from a front end face 28 a thereof and both lateral sidefaces 28 c and 28 d adjacent to the front end face 28 a, respectively,along a bottom side 28 b thereof to guide the memory chip 27 beingintroduced into or removed from the recess 22. The insertion guides 32are engaged into the guide concavities 26 formed in the recess 22 toguide the memory chip 27 being introduced into or removed from therecess 22.

[0052] Note that the recess 22 may have provided near the insertion slot23, for example, a disengagement preventive member to prevent the memorychip 27 once received in the recess 22 from being disengaged from there.Also, the number of the recess 22 is not limited to one but morerecesses 22 may be provided. In this case, the feature expansion module10 can receive a plurality of memory chips to have an increased storagecapacity. Further, the feature expansion module 10 may also receive anintegrated circuit chip having a function other than that of the memorychip to attain a multi-functionality of the feature expansion module 10.

[0053] A variety of data is recorded to the memory chip 27 under thecontrol of the control circuit 44 which implements the unique functionsof the feature expansion module 10, which will be described in detaillater. Also, various kinds of data recorded to the memory chip 27 whenthe feature expansion module 10 is installed in the host device 1 areprocessed by an application program put into run by the controller inthe host device 1. Further, various data having been processed by thehost device are recorded to the memory chip 27. That is, the featureexpansion module 10 also works as an external storage for the hostdevice 1.

[0054] The above feature expansion module 10 has one or more uniquefunctions independent of the host device 1. For example, the featureexpansion module 10 has provided on a top 11 e of the housing 11 afingerprint detector 41 to detect the fingerprint of the user when theuser presses the fingertip to the fingerprint detector 41, as shown inFIGS. 2 and 6. The fingerprint detector 41 includes a fingerprint sensor42 to which the user presses the fingertip, a memory 43 having storedtherein fingerprint data and information related to the fingerprintdata, and the control circuit 44 to check input fingerprint data withthe registered fingerprint data. The feature expansion module 10incorporates a printed wiring board which has mounted thereon one ormore semiconductor devices including the fingerprint sensor 42, memory43 and control circuit 44. The fingerprint detector 41 transfers anauthentication signal to and from the host device 1 through aserial-parallel/parallel-serial interface 49 via the controller 9 of thefeature expansion module 10.

[0055] Using the fingerprint detector 41, the feature expansion module10 can detect whether the user of the host device 1 is a onepre-registered in the memory 43, and limit the access to a specific filestored in the host device 1 and to a specific web site via a network bysending an authentication or non-authentication signal to the hostdevice 1. Also, connected to the host device 1, the feature expansionmodule 10 can make a fingerprint checkup with a pre-registered oneduring an electronic commerce or the like to prevent any illegalelectronic commerce on the network.

[0056] Next, the feature expansion module 10 and the host device 1 inwhich the feature expansion module 10 is to be installed will bedescribed concerning their circuit configurations.

[0057] First, the circuit configuration of the feature expansion module10 will be described. As shown in FIG. 6, the controller 9 included inthe semiconductor device 12 provided in the housing 11 of the featureexpansion module 10 includes a memory controller 46 to control datawrite to or data read from the flash memory 29 of the memory chip 27, aregister 47 having stored therein various parameters for the data writeor read, a page buffer 48 to store data temporarily, and theserial-parallel/parallel-serial (S-P/P-S) interface 49 for use totransfer data to and from the host device 1. Further, in the housing 11forming the body of the feature expansion module 10, there is provided achip interface 50 for use to transfer data between the flash memory 29of the memory chip 27 and controller 9 in the housing 11. The chipinterface 50 enables data transfer to and from the controller 9 when thememory chip 27 is received in the recess 22.

[0058] Also, the memory chip 27 removably receivable in the housing 11includes one flash memory 29, and a chip interface 51 for connection tothe chip interface 50 to transfer data to and from the controller 9.

[0059] Next, the circuit configuration of the host device 1 will bedescribed. As also shown in FIG. 6, the host device 1 includes a filemanager 55 for file management of the feature expansion module 10, atransfer protocol interface 56 for access to the register 47 and pagebuffer 48 in the controller 9 of the feature expansion module 10, and aserial interface 57 to define a protocol for data transfer over threesignal lines, namely, serial clock SCLK, bus state BS and serial datainput/output SDIO. The file manager 55 is an application programimplemented when it is executed by the controller such as a CPU in thehost device 1.

[0060] Next, the circuit configuration of the fingerprint detector 41 ofthe feature expansion module 10 will be described. As previouslydescribed, the fingerprint detector 41 includes the fingerprint sensor42 to which the user presses the fingertip, memory 43 having storedtherein pre-registered fingerprint data and information related to thefingerprint data, and the control circuit 44 to check fingerprint datasupplied from the fingerprint sensor 42 with the fingerprint data storedin the fingerprint memory 43.

[0061] The fingerprint sensor 42 includes an imaging device such as aCCD (charge coupled device), line sensor and the like, a back light toilluminate a touch area thereof, etc. When the fingertip is pressed tothe touch area of the fingerprint sensor 42, the back light is turned onand a fingerprint is captured by the imaging device. The fingerprintsensor 42 extracts fingerprint features such as branches and center ofthe skin ridge from the captured fingerprint. For registration of thefingerprint, the fingerprint sensor 42 supplies fingerprint datacharacteristic of the fingerprint to the memory 43. The memory 43 storessuch fingerprint data characteristic of a to-be-registered fingerprintalong with a unique number (identification number). Also, for eachfingerprint checkup, the fingerprint sensor 42 supplies such fingerprintdata to the control circuit 44.

[0062] Also, additionally to the fingerprint data, the memory 43 storesinformation related to the registered fingerprint data. Morespecifically, the related information stored in the memory 43 includesthe name of a person whose fingerprint has been registered, ID number,serial number of the feature expansion module 10, etc. When the controlcircuit 44 has recognized the fingerprint, the memory 43 delivers thedata on the authenticated user along with the authentication number tothe S-P/P-S interface 49 through the control circuit 44.

[0063] The control circuit 44 controls the entire fingerprint detector41. For example, when a fingertip is pressed to the fingerprint sensor42, the control circuit 44 drives the fingerprint sensor 42 and controlswrite of fingerprint data and related information for registration tothe memory 43 and read of the related information from the memory 43.Also, for checkup of the fingerprint of a user, the control circuit 44checks fingerprint data supplied from the fingerprint sensor 42 withfingerprint data stored in the memory 43 to recognize the user. When thecontrol circuit determines that the fingerprint data supplied from thefingerprint sensor 42 is coincident with the fingerprint data read fromthe memory 43 and thus authenticates the user, it delivers anauthentication signal to the S-P/P-S interface 49. On the contrary, whenthe fingerprint data supplied from the fingerprint sensor 42 is notfound coincident with the fingerprint data read from the memory 43,namely, when the user is not authenticated, the control circuit 44delivers a non-authentication signal to the S-P/P-S interface 49.

[0064] The aforementioned feature expansion module 10 is used as will bedescribed below. First, registration or entry of the fingerprint of auser in the fingerprint detector 41 of the feature expansion module 10will be explained. As the user operates the host device 1 or the like,the control circuit 44 of the feature expansion module 10 will besupplied with a command from the host device 1 and shifts to afingerprint registration mode. Next, when the user presses the fingertipto the fingerprint sensor 42, the control circuit 44 detects it by thefingerprint sensor 42, captures the fingerprint of the user by theimaging device, extracts fingerprint features such as branches andcenter of the skin ridge from the captured fingerprint to generatefingerprint data. Then the control circuit 44 assigns an identificationnumber to the fingerprint data and supplies the fingerprint data to thememory 43. Thus, the memory 43 will store or register the fingerprintdata on the user.

[0065] Note that at this time, the memory 43 can store informationrelated to the fingerprint data to be registered. That is, operatingkeyboard 3 or mouse 5 at the host device 1, the user can enter his orher name and ID number (name and ID number of a person whose fingerprintis to be registered) and record the input data to the memory 43 of thefeature expansion module 10 via the S-P/P-S interface 49.

[0066] Next, how a fingerprint is checked up will be explained. When theuser tries access to a specific computer or to a specific file stored ina hard disc 51 by operating the keyboard 3 or mouse 5 as the operatingdevice for the host device 1, the host device 1 for example will requestthe user for an authentication by the fingerprint checkup.

[0067] Upon the request from the host device 1, the user presses thefingertip to the fingerprint sensor 42 of the feature expansion module10. Then, the control circuit 44 will detect it by the fingerprintsensor 42, captures the fingerprint of the user by the imaging device,extracts fingerprint features such as branches and center of the skinridge from the captured fingerprint to generate fingerprint data. Alsothe control circuit 44 reads registered fingerprint data from the memory43, and checks it with fingerprint data generated by the fingerprintsensor 42. Then when the control circuit 44 determines that thefingerprint data generated by the fingerprint sensor 42 is coincidentwith the fingerprint data read from the memory 43 and thus authenticatesthe user, it delivers an authentication signal to the S-P/P-S interface49 via the controller 9. Also the control circuit 44 supplies therelated information on the authenticated user to the S-P/P-S interface49. Upon reception of the authentication via the serial interface 57,the host device 1 allows the user to access a specific computer, website and a specific file stored in the hard disc.

[0068] On the contrary, when the control circuit 44 has not determinedthat the fingerprint data generated by the fingerprint sensor 42 iscoincident with the fingerprint data read from the memory 43 and thusdoes not authenticate the user, it will deliver a non-authenticationsignal to the S-P/P-S interface 49. Upon reception of thenon-authentication signal via the mouse 5, the host device 1 willinhibit the user from accessing any specific computer, web site and anyspecific file stored in the hard disc.

[0069] Next, how the memory chip 27 is installed to or removed from thehousing 11 of the feature expansion module 10 will be described. Thememory chip 27 is inserted first at the front end 28 a thereof providedwith the terminals 31 from the insertion slot 23 formed in the lateralside face 11 c of the housing 11 of the feature expansion module 10 intothe recess 22. For this introduction, the memory chip 27 is insertedinto the recess 22 from the insertion slot 23 with the guides 32 of thechip body 28 being engaged in the guide concavities 26 in the recess 22.Therefore, the user can smoothly insert the memory chip 27 in the recess22. When the memory chip 27 is completely inserted into the recess 22,the terminals 31 are put into contact with the connection terminals 25in the recess 22 so that the chip interface 51 at the memory chip 27,shown in FIG. 6, will be connected to the chip interface 50 at thehousing 11.

[0070] When the memory chip 27 is completely inserted in the recess 22,the rear end face 28 e of the chip body 28 of the memory chip 27 will begenerally flush with the lateral side face 11 c of the housing 11 inwhich the insertion slot 23 is formed. Thus, the feature expansionmodule 10 can be inserted into the host device 1 and will feel smoothwhen held in hand.

[0071] Note that more than one recess 22 may be formed in the housing 11and in this case a plurality of memory chips 27 having the same storagecapacity or different storage capacities may be received in the recesses22, respectively. Therefore, the user can freely change the wholestorage capacity of the feature expansion module 10 according to anintended use.

[0072] Also, by installing the memory chip 27 having stored therein aplurality of fingerprint data and information related to the fingerprintdata in the feature expansion module 10, it is possible to checkfingerprints of a plurality of persons or users. In this case, thememory chip 27 sends fingerprint data of the plurality of persons to thecontrol circuit 44 via the chip interfaces 50 and 51. Thus, just byreplacing a memory chip 27 with another, the feature expansion module 10can check fingerprints of a plurality of persons. Namely, one hostdevice 1 and feature expansion module 10 can be used commonly by theplurality of persons.

[0073] Further, the user can use memory chips 27 having stored thereindata different kinds of data, respectively. Namely, one of the memorychips stores music data and image data while the other stores data to beprocessed by the computer, for example. A desired one may be selectedfrom the memory chips 27 for installation in the recess 22 when only onerecess 22 is formed in the housing 11 or the memory chips 27 may beinserted in the plurality of recesses 22, respectively, if applied.Thus, the user can easily manage data.

[0074] Also, the memory chip 27 can easily be removed from the housing11 by sliding it toward the insertion slot 23 with the finger beingapplied to the exposed portion of the memory chip 27 in the opening 24.

[0075] The feature expansion module 10 having the memory chip 27 set inthe recess 22 as above is introduced first at the front end face 11 a ofthe housing 11 where the terminal block 13 into the insertion slot 2 ofthe host device 1 as shown in FIG. 1. For facilitating thisintroduction, the housing 11 has the chamfer 17 and incorrect-insertionpreventive cut-out 18 formed at the front end face 11 a. Therefore, ifit is tried to introduce the feature expansion module 10 in any positionother than normal, for example, in an inverted position, into theinsertion slot 2 of the host device 1, the feature expansion module 10will be blocked from being inserted, whereby it is possible to preventthe feature expansion module 10 from being incorrectly inserted. Whenthe feature expansion module 10 is normally inserted into the receptaclein the host device 1 with the elastic engagement piece or the likeprovided at the host device 1 being engaged into the disengagementpreventive concavity 19, it can securely be set in the receptaclewhereby the feature expansion module 10 can be prevented from beingdisengaged from the host device 1.

[0076] When the feature expansion module 10 is thus set in the hostdevice 1, the terminal group of the host device 1 is put into contactwith the electrodes 16 and the S-P/P-S interface 49 of the featureexpansion module 10 is connected to the serial interface 57 of the hostdevice 1 as shown in FIG. 6. Then, the S-P/P-S interface 49 is suppliedwith serial protocol bus state bus BS and serial clock SCLK from thehost device 1. After receiving an authentication signal from thefingerprint detector 41, the controller such as a CPU to control theentire host device 1 will implement the file manager 55 by executing acorresponding application program, and the file manager 55 will readdata such as file name, data size, etc. from the flash memory 29 of thememory chip 27 set in the recess 22 in the housing 11.

[0077] For writing data to the flash memory 29 of the memory chip 27,the file manager 55 updates itself while delivering data to the featureexpansion module 10 via the transfer protocol interface 56 and serialinterface 57. Based on a control signal from the file manager 55, thememory controller 46 temporarily stores data input from the host device1 into the page buffer 48 via the S-P/P-S interface 49 according to theserial protocol bus state signal BS and serial clock SCLK, and thenstores the data into the flash memory 29 of the memory chip 27 set inthe recess 22 at a specified address via the chip interfaces 50 and 51.

[0078] Note that for reading data from the flash memory 29 of one, at aspecified address, of a plurality of memory chips 27 set in a pluralityof recesses 22, the memory controller 46 will be based on the controlsignal from the file manager 55 to read data from the flash memory 29 ofthe specified memory chip 27 according to the serial protocol bus statesignal BS and serial clock SCLK, temporarily store it into the pagebuffer 48 and then deliver it to the host device 1 via the S-P/P-Sinterface 49. Then, the file manager 55 reads data through the serialinterface 57 and transfer protocol interface 56.

[0079] Also note that the feature expansion module 10 set in thereceptacle in the host device 1 is ejected out of the housing 111through the insertion slot 2 by the ejection mechanism engaged in theengagement concavity 21 of the housing 11.

[0080] Also, the memory chip 27 is independently usable as an externalstorage for the host device 1. In this case, the housing 11 forming thebody of the feature expansion module 10 serves as an adapter for thehost device 1 to read or write data from or to the memory chip 27 whenthe latter cannot be set directly in the receptacle in the host device1.

[0081] The user can change the whole storage capacity of theaforementioned feature expansion module 10 just by replacing the memorychip 27 with another. Thus, the user can advantageously select a storagecapacity of the feature expansion module 10 for an intended use. In casethe feature expansion module 10, namely, the housing 11, has a pluralityof recesses 22 formed therein, the user can use the feature expansionmodule 10 conveniently in various manners. For example, it is possibleto store music data an image data in the memory chip 27 set in therecess 22 at the first address while storing data to be processed by thecomputer in the memory chip 27 set in the recess 22 at the secondaddress. Therefore, the user can easily manage data. Further, when afurther memory is required, the user has only to buy an additionalmemory chip 27, which will lead to less expenses.

[0082] Also, with the memory chip 27 having stored therein fingerprintdata on a plurality of persons being set in the recess 22, the featureexpansion module 10 can check fingerprints of the persons and thus onehost device 1 and feature expansion module 10 can be used commonly bythe persons.

[0083] Note that the feature expansion module 10 may be designed toreceive an integrated circuit chip other than the memory chip 27 in therecess 22 formed in the housing 11. When an integrated circuit chipother than the memory chip 27 is set in the housing 11 serving as anadapter, the feature expansion module 10 itself will work as a featureexpansion unit for the host device or information processor.

[0084] Also, since the feature expansion module 10 can receive, in therecess 22 thereof, an integrated circuit chip such as the memory chip 27or the like not fitting the insertion slot 2 of the host device 1 forthe feature expansion module 10, even an integrated circuit chip notcomplying with the standard applied to the insertion slot 2 can beconnected to the host device 1.

[0085] Next, a feature expansion module having a digital camera functioninstalled therein will be described. This feature expansion module isindicated with a reference 70. Note that of this feature expansionmodule 70, the same mechanisms and parts as in the feature expansionmodule 10 with the aforementioned fingerprint detector will be indicatedwith the same references as for the mechanisms and parts of the featureexpansion module 10 and will not be described any more.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 7, there is schematically illustrated thecircuit configuration of the feature expansion module 70. As shown, thefeature expansion module 70 is formed to have the same shape as theaforementioned feature expansion module 10. The feature expansion module70 has formed at one end thereof the recess 22 in which an integratedcircuit chip such as the memory chip 27 or the like is removablyinstalled. Also, the feature expansion module 70 includes the housing 11formed from upper and lower halves coupled by butting them, and thesemiconductor device 12 including the memory chip 27 and controller 9which reads and write informative signals from and to a control circuit74 which will be described in detail later. Further, the featureexpansion module 70 has the terminal block 13 formed over the front endface 11 a and bottom side 11 b, and transfers data to and from the hostdevice 1 through the electrodes 16 of the terminal block 13 via a serialinterface.

[0087] The feature expansion module 70 includes an imaging unit 73removably installed on the rear side 1 If of the housing 11 and formedfrom an imaging device such as a CCD 71 or the like, the control circuit74 to send picture signal captured by the imaging unit 73 to the hostdevice 1 and store the data into the memory chip 27, and a buffer 75 tostore video signals generated by the control circuit 74. Thus, thefeature expansion module 70 functions as a digital camera independentlyof the host device 1. Also, with the feature expansion module 70 beingconnected to the host device 1 with an image display via the terminalblock 13 with the imaging unit 73 being removed therefrom, a capturedimage can be displayed on the image display of the host device 1. Thatis, the feature expansion module 70 can serve as an external storage forthe host device 1.

[0088] The imaging unit 73 to capture an image is installed on the rearside 11 f of the housing 11, and includes a generally rectangularhousing 73 a, pickup lens 76 provided inside the housing 73 a, and a CCD(charge coupled device) device 71 to generate video signal. The controlcircuit 74 to process picture signal captured by the imaging unit 73includes an A/D converter to convert picture signal captured by theimaging unit 73 into digital signal, a signal processor to processdigital signal for each color coding, compressor to compress theprocessed picture signal, etc. The buffer 75 temporarily stores thevideo signals generated by the control circuit 74 is connected to thecontroller 9 of the feature expansion module 70, and can send thepicture signal to the host device 1 via the S-P/P-S interface 49 andstore the video data into the memory chip 27 set in the recess 22.

[0089] Next, how the feature expansion module 70 takes a picture will beexplained. A picture signal from the CCD device 71 of the imaging unit73 is color-coded by color coding filters for primary colors (R, G andB) or complimentary colors (Ye, Cy and Mg), delivered to the A/Dconverter of the control circuit 74, converted into digital video dataand then delivered to the signal processor. The output video data isdecoded for each color coding by the color coding filters of the CCDdevice 71 to produce brightness information, color-differenceinformation, etc. The decoded video data is compressed in the JPEG(Joint Photographic Experts Group) form for example, and supplied to thebuffer 75. Also, the video data compressed in the JPEG form istransferred by the controller 9 to the host device 1 via the S-P/P-Sinterface 49, and also to the memory chip 27 via the chip interface 50.

[0090] The feature expansion module 70 can have an increased storagecapacity just by replacing the memory chip 27 with any otherlarger-capacity one even when the video data going to be stored into thememory chip 27 is too large in size for storage into the memory chip 27.

[0091] Also, the feature expansion module 70 can avoid a mixture ofvideo data of different kinds from being mixed in one memory chip byreplacing the memory chip with another for each difference between videodata in date, location or the like of picture data acquisition. Thus,the feature expansion module 70 can easily manage data.

[0092] Having the imaging unit 73 installed in the feature expansionmodule 70 having the memory chip 27 already set therein, the featureexpansion module 70 can function as a digital still camera independentlyof the host device 1. Since the memory chip 27 and control circuit 74are formed inside the housing 11 of the feature expansion module 70, itis possible to design the housing 73 a of the imaging unit 73 compactand lightweight, and thus improve the portability.

[0093] Further, by installing the feature expansion module 70 with theimaging unit 73 removed therefrom in the host device 1 with the imagedisplay, the feature expansion module 70 can transfer video datacompressed in the JPEG form to the host device 1 and display it on theimage display of the host device 1. That is, the feature expansionmodule 70 can also be used as an external storage for the host device 1.

[0094] Also, since the feature expansion module 70 can receive, in therecess 22 thereof, an integrated circuit chip such as the memory chip 27or the like not fitting the insertion slot 2 of the host device 1 forthe feature expansion module 70, even an integrated circuit chip notcomplying with the standard applied to the insertion slot 2 can beconnected to the host device 1.

[0095] Note that the feature expansion module 70 may have a recess 22formed in the housing 73 a of the imaging unit 73 for receiving anintegrated circuit chip such as the memory chip 27 or the like.

[0096] Next, a feature expansion module having a GPS (global positioningsystem) function installed therein will be described. This featureexpansion module is indicated with a reference 90. Note that of thisfeature expansion module 90, the same mechanisms and parts as in thefeature expansion module 10 with the aforementioned fingerprint detectorwill be indicated with the same references as for the mechanisms andparts of the feature expansion module 10 and will not be described anymore.

[0097] Referring now to FIG. 8, there is schematically illustrated thecircuit configuration of the feature expansion module 90. As shown, thefeature expansion module 90 is formed to have the same shape as theaforementioned feature expansion module 10. The feature expansion module90 has formed at one end thereof the recess 22 in which an integratedcircuit chip such as the memory chip 27 or the like is removablyinstalled. Also, the feature expansion module 90 includes the housing 11formed from upper and lower halves coupled by butting them, and thesemiconductor chip 12 built in the housing 11 and including the memorychip 27 and controller 9 which reads position data including latitudeand longitude information and the like from a positioning computationcontroller 94 which will be described in detail later, sends it to thehost device 1 and stores it into the memory chip 27. Further, thefeature expansion module 90 has the terminal block 13 formed over thefront end face 11 a and bottom side 11 b of the housing 11 and whichtransfers data to and from the host device 1 through the electrodes 16of the terminal block 13 via the S-P/P-S interface 49.

[0098] The feature expansion module 90 includes a receiver 93 removablyinstalled on the rear side 11 f of the housing 11 and including partssuch as GPS antenna 96, and the positioning computation controller 94 todetect user's position from GPS signals supplied from the receiver 93.Thus the feature expansion module 90 functions as a GPS receiverindependently of the host device 1. Also, with the feature expansionmodule 90 being connected to the host device 1 with an image display viathe terminal block 13 with the receiver 93 removed therefrom, thecurrent position of the feature expansion module 90 can be displayed onthe image display of the host device 1. That is, the feature expansionmodule 90 can expand the function of the host device 1.

[0099] The receiver 93 receives radio waves from GPS satellites. Itincludes the antenna 96 and a GPS signal processor 97 to make digitalprocessing of GPS signals coming from the antenna 96. The GPS signalprocessor 97 converts the frequencies of each of the GPS signalsreceived from the plurality of GPS satellites, and then sends each GPSsignal to the positioning computation controller 94. The positioningcomputation controller 94 detects the position of the feature expansionmodule 90 based on the received GPS signals.

[0100] More particularly, the GPS antenna 96 receives radio waves eachincluding an accurate time signal from a plurality of GPS satellites,and the GPS signal processor 97 modulates and otherwise processes thereceived signal to reproduce the time signals and supplies the timesignals to the positioning computation controller 94 including aposition detection circuit.

[0101] The positioning computation controller 94 measures a distance toeach of the GPS satellites on the basis of the time signal and detectsthe latitude and longitude of the feature expansion module 90. Thelatitude and longitude can be determined as points of intersection amongspheres whose radii are the measured distances to the GPS satellites andcenters are absolute positions of the GPS satellites. The positioningcomputation controller 94 supplies the latitude and longitudeinformation of the feature expansion module 90 to the controller 9.

[0102] When the feature expansion module 90 is installed in the hostdevice 1 with the image display, the controller 9 will send the latitudeand longitude information to th host device 1 via the S-P/P-S interface49. The host device 1 having received the latitude and longitudeinformation displays the present position of the feature expansionmodule 90 on the image display thereof. Also, when the feature expansionmodule 90 is installed in a host device 1 such as a mobile phone,computer or the like having a data communications function and sends thelatitude and longitude information to the host device 1 via the S-P/P-Sinterface 49, the host device 1 can send the latitude and longitudeinformation to any other mobile phone or computer.

[0103] Also, the controller 9 sends the latitude and longitudeinformation, for storage, to the memory chip 27 set in the recess 22 viathe chip interfaces 50 and 51.

[0104] The feature expansion module 90 constructed as above can have anincreased storage capacity just by replacing the memory chip 27 with anyother larger-capacity one even when the position data such as thelatitude and longitude information is too large in size for storage intothe memory chip 27.

[0105] Also, the feature expansion module 90 can avoid a mixture ofvideo data of different kinds from being mixed in one memory chip byreplacing the memory chip with another for each difference betweenposition data in date, location or the like of positioning. Thus, thefeature expansion module 90 can easily manage data.

[0106] Having the receiver 93 installed in the feature expansion module90 having the memory chip 27 already set therein, the feature expansionmodule 90 can function as a GPS receiver independently of the hostdevice 1. Since the memory chip 27 and positioning computationcontroller 94 are formed inside the housing 11 of the feature expansionmodule 90, it is possible to design the housing 93 a of the receiver 93compact and lightweight, and thus improve the portability.

[0107] Further, by installing the feature expansion module 90 with thereceiver 93 removed therefrom in the host device 1 with the imagedisplay, the feature expansion module 90 can send the latitude andlongitude information to the host device 1 and display the presentposition thereof on the image display of the host device 1. That is, thefeature expansion module 90 can also be used as a module to expand thefunction of the host device 1.

[0108] Also, since the feature expansion module 90 can receive, in therecess 22 thereof, an integrated circuit chip such as the memory chip 27or the like not fitting the insertion slot 2 of the host device 1 forthe feature expansion module 90, even an integrated circuit chip notcomplying with the standard applied to the insertion slot 2 can beconnected to the host device 1.

[0109] Note that the feature expansion module 90 may have a recess 22formed in the receiver 93 to receive an integrated circuit chip such asthe memory chip 27 or the like.

[0110] Also note that although the feature expansion module having asingle function according to the preset invention has been described inthe foregoing, the present invention is not limited to this embodimentbut the present invention is applicable to a feature expansion modulehaving a plurality of functions.

[0111] Next, a feature expansion module 100 having a digital camerafunction installed therein will be described.

[0112] The feature expansion module 100 which will be explainedherebelow is different from the feature expansion module 70 shown inFIG. 7 in that a memory chip installed in the module 100 itself isconnectable to a host device and usable as an external storage for thehost device. Also, when the memory chip is installed in the featureexpansion module 100, either a camera function or a memory function willbe recognized by the host device. That is, the memory chip installed inthe feature expansion module 100 will not be used as a part of thecamera function but it will be recognized as a memory by the hostdevice.

[0113] Note that in the following, a memory chip installable in thefeature expansion module 100 will be referred to as “compact memorycard”, a mode in which the feature expansion module 100 works as acamera will be referred to as “camera mode” and a mode in which thefeature expansion module 100 works as a memory will be referred to as“memory mode”.

[0114] Referring now to FIG. 9, there is schematically illustrated inthe form of perspective concept view the feature expansion module 100and compact memory card 120 installable in the feature expansion module100.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 9, the feature expansion module 100 is composedof an I/O module 111 and a camera module 112. The I/O module 111 isformed to have the same shape as the feature expansion module 10 havingpreviously been described, and has provided at one end thereof theterminal block 13 for connection with a host device. The I/O module 111has the camera module 112 provided at the end thereof opposite to theend where the terminal block 13 is provided. The camera module 112includes a CCD image sensor, optical system, etc. The feature expansionmodule 100 has formed at the end thereof opposite to the terminal block13 a slot 122 into which a compact memory card 120 is to be inserted.The compact memory card 120 is installed into the feature expansionmodule 100 through the slot 122.

[0116] The camera module 112 is rotatable in the direction of arrow X inFIG. 9 so that the lens can be directed freely.

[0117]FIG. 10 is an internal block diagram of the feature expansionmodule 100.

[0118] As shown, the feature expansion module 100 includes a cameracontroller 131, camera signal processor 132, bus switch 133 and an SRAM134. Also, the compact memory card 120 is inserted through the slot 122and connected to the internal terminal block of the feature expansionmodule 100.

[0119] Using a three-wire half-duplex serial data transfer protocolusing bus state BS, serial clock SCLK and serial data DIO, the cameracontroller 131 transfers data to and from the host device. Also, thecamera controller 131 controls the operations of the camera signalprocessor 132.

[0120] The camera signal processor 132 has provided therein an opticalsystem 135 including a lens etc., CCD image sensor 136 and an imageprocessor 137. Being controlled by the camera controller 131, the camerasignal processor 132 takes a picture of an object and transfers picturedata thus captured to the SRAM 134.

[0121] The SRAM 134 is a memory to hold the picture data from the camerasignal processor 132. The picture data from the camera signal processor132 is stored once into the SRAM 134 via the camera controller 131. Thepicture data stored in the SRAM 134 is transferred to the host devicevia the camera controller 131 under a transfer command from the hostdevice, for example. It should be noted that in the feature expansionmodule 100, picture data can forcibly be transferred from the camerasignal processor 132 to the SRAM 134 either by giving an operationcontrol command from the host device or by turning the camera block 112by hand.

[0122] The compact memory card 120 uses the same data transfer protocolas that for data transfer between the camera controller 131 and hostdevice to transfer data to and from the host device. It should be notedthat the physical line of the interface between the compact memory card120 and host device is connected to the host device via the bus switch133 while a serial clock (SCLK) signal line is connected directly to thehost device. The bus switch 133 is provided to connect and disconnectthe connection line between the compact memory card 120 and host device.The connection establishment by the bus switch 133 is controlled by thecamera controller 131. When the feature expansion module 100 is in thememory mode, the camera controller 131 controls the bus switch 133 toconnect the serial data bus between the host device and compact memorycard 120, while controlling the bus switch 133 not to connect the serialdata bus between the host device and compact memory card 120 when thefeature expansion module 100 is in the camera mode. The bus state BSsignal is supplied from the camera controller 131 to the compact memorycard 120.

[0123] Also, the compact memory card 120 has a connection terminal INSfor detecting whether or not the compact memory card 120 is set in thefeature expansion module 100. The connection terminal INS is connectedto the camera controller 131. The camera controller 131 monitors thestate of the connection line of the card setting detecting connectionterminal INS to determine whether or not the compact memory card 120 isset in the feature expansion module 100.

[0124]FIG. 11 is an internal block diagram of the camera controller 131.

[0125] As shown in FIG. 11, the camera controller 131 includes aninterface (I/F) circuit 141, register circuit 142, buffer circuit 143and a controller 144.

[0126] The I/F circuit 141 uses the three-wire half-duplex parallel datatransfer protocol to transfer data to and from the host device.

[0127] The register circuit 142 is provided to store, for example, anoperation control command for the controller 144, transferred from thehost device, internal state of the feature expansion module 100, variousnecessary parameters for execution of the operation control command,other parameters, etc. The register circuit 142 is accessed from boththe host device and controller 144. For data write, the host device willaccess a write register 142 a in the register circuit 142, and for dataread, the host device will access a read register 142 b. It should benoted that for access to the register circuit 142, the host device usesa transfer protocol command defined in the data transfer protocol forthe feature expansion module 100. That is to say, to write or read datain response to an operation control command or any of various parametersstored in the register circuit 142, the host device will use thetransfer protocol command.

[0128] The data buffer circuit 143 is provided to temporarily store, orbuffer, picture data to be transferred to the host device.

[0129] In response to the operation control command transferred from thehost device, the controller 144 controls the camera signal processor 132and SRAM 134 and updates the data stored in the register circuit 142. Itshould be noted that under this interface protocol, the controller 144controls operations of the camera signal processor 132 etc. after theoperation control command is stored once into the register circuit 142.

[0130] Namely, for giving an operation control command to the cameracontroller 131, the host device should write the operation controlcommand at a predetermined address in the register circuit 142 byexecuting the data transfer protocol. Once the operation control commandis written at the predetermined address in the register circuit 142, thecontroller 144 will control the operation of the camera signal processor132 etc. according to the content of the operation control command thuswritten in the register circuit 142.

[0131]FIG. 12 is an internal block diagram of the compact memory card120.

[0132] As shown, the compact memory card 120 includes an interface (I/F)circuit 151, register circuit 152, data buffer circuit 153, controller154 and a flash memory 155.

[0133] The I/F circuit 151 uses the three-wire half-duplex parallel datatransfer protocol to transfer data to and from the host device. The datatransfer protocol for data transfer between the I/F circuit 151 and hostdevice the same as that for the camera controller 131.

[0134] The register circuit 152 is provided to store, for example, anoperation control command transferred from the host device, internalstate of the compact memory card 120, various necessary parameters forexecution of the operation control command, file management informationetc. in the flash memory 155. The register circuit 152 is accessed fromboth the host device and controller 154. For data write, the host devicewill access a write register 152 a in the register circuit 152, and fordata read, the host device will access a read register 152 b. For accessto the register circuit 152, the host device will use the same transferprotocol command as that for the camera signal processor.

[0135] The data buffer circuit 153 is provided to temporarily store datato be written to the flash memory 155 and data read from the flashmemory 155.

[0136] In response to the operation control command stored in theregister circuit 152, the controller 154 controls the data transferbetween the data buffer circuit 153 and flash memory 155 and functionsof the compact memory card 120 and others, and updates the data storedin the register circuit 152.

[0137] The flash memory 155 is a nonvolatile semiconductor memory suchas a NAND type flash memory or the like.

[0138] For giving an operation control command to the above compactmemory card 120, the host device writes the operation control commandinto the register circuit 152 by executing the data transfer protocol.Once the operation control command is written in the register circuit152, the controller 154 will control the operations of the flash memoryetc. according to the content of the operation control command thuswritten in the register circuit 152.

[0139] Next, various types of registers used in the register circuit 142of the camera controller 131 will be described.

[0140] The parameter content of the register circuit 142 is read fromthe host device in response to an operation control command calledREAD_REG, and written from the host device in response to an operationcontrol command called WRITE_REG. It should be noted that under theREAD_REG command, data is read from a read register 142 b and under theWRITE_REG command, data is written to a write register 142 a.

[0141] The register circuit 142 has provided therein a category registerto which a parameter indicative of an operation mode of the featureexpansion module 100 is recorded. The controller 144 switches theoperation mode of the feature expansion module 100 to the camera mode ormemory mode according to the data in the category register. When thefeature expansion module 100 is in the camera mode, the controller 144will put the camera signal processor 132 into a standby state whiledisconnecting the data bus between the compact memory card 120 and hostdevice by turning off the bus switch 133. When the feature expansionmodule 100 is in the memory mode, the controller 144 will release thecamera signal processor 132 from the standby state while connecting thedata bus between the compact memory card 120 and host device by turningon the bus switch 133. The data in the category register is rewritableby the host device. Thus, the host device can control the operation modeof the feature expansion module 100.

[0142] Note that the register circuit 152 in the compact memory card 120has also a category register provided therein. However, no value for thecamera mode can be written to this category register in the compactmemory card 120.

[0143] In the following, it is assumed that the value in the categoryregister is 0×06 when the feature expansion module 100 is in the cameramode and 0×00 when the feature expansion module 100 is in the memorymode. Therefore, the value 0×00 or 0×06 is written to the categoryregister in the camera controller 131. It should be noted that the valuein the category register in the compact memory card 120 is fixed to0×00. Also, when no compact memory card 120 is installed, the value inthe category register in the camera controller 131 is fixed to 0×06.

[0144] Also, the register circuit 142 has provided therein a camera orpicture inversion register in which there is stored a parameterindicating whether or not picture data stored in the SRAM 134 is to beinverted for transfer to the host device. Since the camera module 112 ofthe feature expansion module 100 is freely rotatable, when the cameramodule 112 is rotated 180 degrees from the home (reference) position, apicture appears inverted vertically or horizontally with respect to thehome position. The controller 144 determines the rotated position of thecamera module 112 and change in value the parameter in the camerainversion register depending upon whether the camera module 112 is inthe normal position or in the inverted position. For transfer of picturedata from the SRAM 134 to the host device, the controller 144 willinvert the picture data depending upon the parameter value in the camerainversion register.

[0145] Also, the register circuit 142 has provided therein a cardsetting register in which there is stored a parameter indicating whetheror not the compact memory card 120 is set in the feature expansionmodule 100. The parameter is written to the card setting register by thecontroller 144. The controller 144 monitors the state of the connectionline of the card setting detecting connection terminal INS of thecompact memory card 120 to determine whether or not the compact memorycard 120 is set in the feature expansion module 100, and renews theparameter value in the card setting register depending upon the resultof determination.

[0146] Also, the register circuit 142 has provided therein a cameracontrol register in which there is stored a parameter for controllingwhether or not transfer of picture data from the camera signal processor132 to the SRAM 134 is to be allowed. The controller 144 transfers thepicture data from the camera signal processor 132 to the SRAM 134 bymaking reference to the parameter value in the camera control register.

[0147] Next, how the operation mode of the feature expansion module 100is switched will be explained.

[0148]FIG. 13 is a state transition diagram showing the mode switchingof the feature expansion module 100.

[0149] Just after the system is powered, the feature expansion module100 will detect the parameter value in the card setting register of theregister circuit 142 to determine whether or not the compact memory card120 is set in the feature expansion module 100. When it is determinedthat the compact memory card 120 is set, the feature expansion module100 shifts to the memory mode (St2). If the compact memory card 120 isnot set, the feature expansion module 100 will shift the camera mode(St1).

[0150] After the systerm powering, the feature expansion module 100 willmonitor the value in the category register and shift the mode ofoperation to either the camera or memory mode. When the value in thecategory register is found changed to 0×06 (camera mode) for example,the feature expansion module 100 shifts to the camera mode (St 1). Onthe contrary, when the value is changed to 0×00(memory mode), thefeature expansion module 100 shifts to the memory mode (St2).

[0151] Note that still after the system powering, the feature expansionmodule 100 will continuously monitor the parameter value in the cardsetting register and if the compact memory card 120 is forcibly removedfrom the feature expansion module 100, the latter will forcibly beshifted to the camera mode.

[0152] Next, the start-up sequence after powering the system with thecompact memory card 120 set in the feature expansion module 100 will beexplained with reference to FIG. 14. It should be noted that aSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command used in the startup sequence which will bedescribed below is a command for specifying an address in the registercircuit to which access is made according to the READ_REG and WRITE_REGcommands.

[0153] When the system is powered, the host device will send aSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command for specifying an address in the categoryregister to the feature expansion module 100 (in step S11). TheSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thus received by the feature expansion module100 is given to the register circuit of the camera controller 131. Next,for writing a value 0×00 to the category register in the write register142 a, the host device will send a WRITE REG command to the featureexpansion module 100 (in step S12). The WRITE_REG command thus receivedby the feature expansion module 100 is given to the category register inthe write register 142 a of the camera controller 131 and the value 0×00will be written to the category register. When the value 0×00 has thusbeen written to the category register of the write register 142 a, thecontroller 144 in the camera controller 131 will determine whether ornot the compact memory card 120 is set in place. Since the compactmemory card 120 is already set as mentioned above, the value 0×00 willbe written to the category register in the read register 142 b. Then,the host device will send a READ_REG command to the feature expansionmodule 100 and receive in return the value 0×00 from the categoryregister of the read register 142 b (in step S13).

[0154] Once the value 0×00 is written to the category register as above,the feature expansion module 100 will operate in the memory mode.

[0155] Next, for writing a value 0×06 to the category register, the hostdevice will send a WRITE_REG command to the feature expansion module 100(in step S14). The WRITE_REG command thus received by the featureexpansion module 100 is given to the category register in the writeregister 142 a of the camera controller 131 and the value 0×06 iswritten to the category register. After the value 0×06 is thus writtento the category register of the write register 142 a, the controller 144in the camera controller 131 will write the value 0×06 to the categoryregister of the read register 142 b. Then, the host device will send aSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command for specifing an address in the categoryregister to the feature expansion module 100 (in step S15). The SET_R_WREG_ADRS command thus received by the feature expansion module 100 isgiven to the register circuit of the camera controller 131. Next, thehost device will send a READ_REG command to the feature expansion module100, and receive in return the value 0×06 from the category register inthe read register 142 b (in step S16).

[0156] With the value 0×06 written to the category register as above,the feature expansion module 100 will shift from the memory mode to thecamera mode.

[0157] Next, the start-up sequence after powering the system with nocompact memory card 120 set in the feature expansion module 100 will beexplained with reference to FIG. 15.

[0158] When the system is powered, the host device will send aSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command for specifying an address in the categoryregister to the feature expansion module 100 (in step S21). TheSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thus received by the feature expansion module100 is given to the register circuit of the camera controller 131. Next,for writing a value 0×00 to the category register in the write register142 a, the host device will send a WRITE_REG command to the featureexpansion module 100 (in step S22). The WRITE_REG command thus receivedby the feature expansion module 100 is given to the category register inthe write register 142 a of the camera controller 131 and the value 0×00will be written to the category register. When the value 0×00 has thusbeen written to the category register of the write register 142 a, thecontroller 144 in the camera controller 131 will determine whether ornot the compact memory card 120 is set in place. Since no compact memorycard 120 is set as mentioned above, a value 0×06 will be written to thecategory register in the read register 142 b. Then, the host device willsend a READ_REG command to the feature expansion module 100 and receivein return the value 0×06 from the category register of the read register142 b (in step S23).

[0159] Next, for writing a value 0×06 to the category register, the hostdevice will send a WRITE_REG command to the feature expansion module 100(in step S24). The WRITE_REG command thus received by the featureexpansion module 100 is given to the category register in the writeregister 142 a of the camera controller 131 and the value 0×06 iswritten to the category register. After the value 0×06 is thus writtento the category register of the write register 142 a, the controller 144in the camera controller 131 will write the value 0×06 to the categoryregister of the read register 142 b. Then, the host device will send aSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command for specifying an address in the categoryregister to the feature expansion module 100 (in step S25). TheSET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thus received by the feature expansion module100 is given to the register circuit of the camera controller 131. Next,the host device will send a READ REG command to the feature expansionmodule 100, and receive in return the value 0×06 from the categoryregister in the read register 142 b (in step S26).

[0160] Next, the sequence of transition from the camera mode to thememory mode will be described with reference to FIG. 16.

[0161] The host device will send a SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command forspecifying an address in the camera control register to the featureexpansion module 100 (in step S31). The SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thusreceived by the feature expansion module 100 is given to the registercircuit of the camera controller 131. Next, for writing a value 0×01 tothe camera control register in the write register 142 a, the host devicewill send a WRITE_REG command to the feature expansion module 100 (instep S32). The WRITE_REG command thus received by the feature expansionmodule 100 is given to the camera control register in the write register142 a and the value 0×01 will be written to the camera control register.When the value 0×01 has thus been written to the camera controlregister, the picture data transfer from the camera signal processor 132to the SRAM 134 will be interrupted.

[0162] Next, the host device will send a SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command forspecifing an address in the category register to the feature expansionmodule 100 (in step S33). The SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thus received bythe feature expansion module 100 is given to the register circuit of thecamera controller 131. Next, for writing a value 0×00 to the categoryregister in the write register 142 a, the host device will send aWRITE_REG command to the feature expansion module 100 (in step S34). TheWRITE REG command thus received by the feature expansion module 100 isgiven to the category register in the write register 142 a of the cameracontroller 131 and the value 0×00 will be written to the categoryregister. When the value 0×00 has thus been written to the categoryregister of the write register 142 a, the controller 144 in the cameracontroller 131 will determine whether or not the compact memory card 120is set in place. Since the compact memory card 120 is already set, thevalue 0×00 will be written to the category register in the read register142 b. Then, the camera controller 131 will shift the mode of operationto the memory mode.

[0163] Then, the host device will send a SET_R W REG_ADRS command forspecifying an address in the category register to the feature expansionmodule 100 (in step S35). The SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thus received bythe feature expansion module 100 is given to the register circuit of thecompact memory card 120. Next, the host device will send a READ_REGcommand to the feature expansion module 100, and receive in return thevalue 0×00 from the category register in the compact memory card 120 (instep S36).

[0164] With the value 0×00 written to the category register as above,the feature expansion module 100 will shift from the camera mode to thememory mode.

[0165] Next, the sequence of transition from the memory mode to thecamera mode will be described with reference to FIG. 17.

[0166] The host device will send a SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command forspecifying an address in the camera control register to the featureexpansion module 100 (in step S41). The SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thusreceived by the feature expansion module 100 is given to the registercircuit of the camera controller 131. Next, for writing a value 0×06 tothe write register 142 a in the register circuit, the host device willsend a WRITE_REG command to the feature expansion module 100 (in stepS42). The WRITE_REG command thus received by the feature expansionmodule 100 is given to the category register in the write register 142 aof the camera controller 131. After the value 0×06 is written to thecategory register in the write register 142 a, the controller 144 in thecamera controller 131 will write the value 0×06 to the category registerin the read register 142 b. Then, the host device will send a READ_REGcommand to the feature expansion module 100 and receive in return thevalue 0×06 from the category register in the read register 142 b (instep S43). When the value 0×06 has thus been written to the categoryregister, the feature expansion module 100 will shift to the cameramode.

[0167] Next, the host device will send a SET_R W_REG_ADRS command forspecifying an address in the camera control register to the featureexpansion module 100 (in step S44). The SET_R_W_REG_ADRS command thusreceived by the feature expansion module 100 is given to the registercircuit of the camera controller 131. Next, the host device will send aWRITE_REG command to the feature expansion module 100 and a value 0×01will be stored into the camera control register in the write register142 a of the camera controller 131 (in step S45).

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0168] As having been described in the foregoing, the present inventionprovides a feature expansion module designed to have the storagecapacity thereof increased by replacing the integrated circuit chip witha larger-capacity one. Namely, even if the memory capacity of thefeature expansion module being used becomes insufficient, it can beincreased just by replacing the integrated circuit chip with anotherwithout having to use any fresh feature expansion module or transferdata to a host computer.

[0169] Also, the feature expansion module according to the presentinvention can be used with a more appropriate one selected fromavailable integrated circuit chips for data being handled, and thus datacan easily be managed with the feature expansion module.

[0170] Further, since the feature expansion module according to thepresent invention has a control circuit for an auxiliary module providedin the housing thereof, an auxiliary module to be installed at one endof the housing can be designed compact and lightweight, which willgreatly contribute to an improved portability.

[0171] Moreover, since in the feature expansion module according to thepresent invention, a recess is designed to receive therein an integratedcircuit chip not fitting an insertion slot formed in a host device forthe feature expansion module, an integrated circuit chip not complyingwith a standard applied to the insertion slot can be connected to thehost device.

1. A feature expansion module comprising: a generally rectangular bodyinstallable in a host device; a first connection terminal provided atone side of the body to electrically be connected to the host device; afeature expansion unit formed in the body and having one or morefunctions; one or more recesses, formed contiguously to an insertionslot formed at the other side of the body and through which anintegrated circuit chip incorporating integrated circuit elements is tobe inserted, to receive the integrated circuit chip; a second connectionterminal provided in the recess to electrically be connected to a groupof terminals provided on the integrated circuit chip; and a controllerincorporated in the body to control the integrated circuit chip set inthe recess.
 2. The feature expansion module as set forth in claim 1,wherein the integrated circuit chip is a memory chip including memoryelements.
 3. The feature expansion module as set forth in claim 1,wherein an auxiliary module to implement one or more functions isinstalled in the body.
 4. The feature expansion module as set forth inclaim 3, wherein the auxiliary module includes: a recess in which theintegrated circuit chip is to be set; and a connection terminal providedin the recess for electrical connection to a group of terminals providedon the integrated circuit chip.
 5. A feature expansion modulecomprising: a generally rectangular body installable in a host device;one or more integrated circuit chips including an internal integratedcircuit element; a first connection terminal provided at one side of thebody to electrically be connected to the host device; a featureexpansion unit formed in the body and having one or more functions; oneor more recesses, formed contiguously to an insertion slot formed at theother side of the body and through which the integrated circuit chipincorporating the integrated circuit element is to be inserted, toreceive the integrated circuit chip; a second connection terminalprovided in the recess to electrically be connected to a group ofterminals provided on the integrated circuit chip; and a controllerincorporated in the body to control the integrated circuit chip set inthe recess.
 6. The feature expansion module as set forth in claim 5,wherein the integrated circuit chip is a memory chip including memoryelements.
 7. The feature expansion module as set forth in claim 5,wherein an auxiliary module to implement one or more functions isinstalled in the body.
 8. The feature expansion module as set forth inclaim 7, wherein the auxiliary module includes: a recess in which theintegrated circuit chip is to be set; and a connection terminal providedin the recess for electrical connection to a group of terminals providedon the integrated circuit chip.
 9. A feature expansion modulecomprising: a generally rectangular body installable in a host device; aconnection terminal provided at one side of the body for electricalconnection to the host device; a feature expansion unit formed in thebody and having a predetermined function; a first interface to controldata transfer between the host device and feature expansion unit via theconnection terminal; a memory card connector provided at the other sideof the body for electrical connection of a memory card; and a bus forelectrical connection with the host device via the memory card connectedto the memory card connector and connection terminal; the featureexpansion unit making data transfer to and from the host device when itis set in a first mode while allowing data transfer between the memorycard and host device when in a second mode.